A dog trainer from Liverpool has backed calls for potential dog owners to source their pets from responsible breeders.
Justine Shone believes puppy breeding is not a new activity, but in recent years, has undergone a significant shift to an online marketplace.
She was speaking after an announcement from Christine Middlemiss, veterinary surgeon and UK chief veterinary officer, who has warned against importing or rehoming dogs from abroad.
Shone emphasised the need for owners to research dog breeders and believes it’s essential for the animals’ behavioural reasons and health, and to stop supporting unethical breeding practices.
Mrs Shone Said: ‘‘In my experience with dog training, I do come across issues with dog behaviours due to poor, unregulated dog breeding, such as aggression and anxiety.
“The demand for trendy breeds like French bulldogs, Dachshunds and popular hybrids such as Cockapoos fuels irresponsible breeding, contributing to the genetic problems seen in affected breeds.”
New safeguarding measure introduced last week focus on imports from Romania into Great Britain, meaning all commercial dog imports must now undergo mandatory pre-import testing.
The announcement advises not just buying from safe sources but ensuring health checks and documentations are in place.
Since 2020, there has been a steady increase in the number of Brucella Canis cases in Great Britain, the majority of which have been found in imported dogs with around 50% of all identified infections since 2020 coming from Romanian dog imports.
Brucella Canis is a serious bacterial disease affecting dogs, it can cause reproductive problems such as abortion, joint pain and lameness. Many of these infected dogs don’t show symptoms and can still spread the infection.
‘‘First thing, ask to see the parents. This is essential; if they don’t let you see the parents, walk away,” Shone added.
“Second thing, you should also be able to visit the facility where the dogs are bred and housed. If the breeder is hesitant, walk away.
“Lastly, once you buy a puppy, please take it to your Vet for a health check, vaccinations and worming.”
Middlemiss said: ‘‘Anyone considering getting a dog should make sure they are fully prepared for the responsibility.
“Importing dogs without the proper health checks or testing can increase the risk of introducing serious diseases like Brucella Canis into Great Britain’’.
‘‘The new rules on dogs imported from Romania are a necessary step to safeguard both animal and human health.
“I strongly urge prospective dog owners to do their research, choose reputable breeders or rescue organisations, and ensure all required health checks and tests are completed before bringing a dog into their home,” Middlemiss added.
The government has confirmed that the safeguard measures will remain in place until the disease risk is judged to have reduced significantly.
Officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and review the requirement regularly.
